Is it permissible to masturbate to prevent oneself from looking at forbidden things, such as films and pictures, while being certain that one would look if one did not masturbate, and at the same time supplicating to be rid of this habit and to refrain from looking?

Masturbation is forbidden, and repentance from it is obligatory immediately; it should not be delayed until Ramadan. One must have a good opinion of Allah, rely on Him, and trust Him. The servant will be safe, Allah willing, if he trusts in Allah and seeks His help. For Allah holds the treasures of the heavens and the earth, and He is the One who said: "And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out." So, the servant must ask Allah with a sincere tongue and a devoted heart to accept his repentance, and seek His help in conquering the self from looking at what is forbidden.